The recent wave of protests in Kenya, driven predominantly by young people, has captured global attention and raised questions about the potential for similar movements in other countries. As Kenya’s youth took to the streets to oppose a contentious finance bill, their actions highlighted the power of Generation Z in mobilising for change. This begs the question: Can Gen Zs in other nations replicate this level of activism and impact?
The Kenyan Protests: A Background
Kenya’s political landscape was recently shaken by mass protests against a finance bill proposed by President William Ruto’s administration. The bill, which aimed to increase taxes, sparked outrage among citizens already grappling with high living costs. Demonstrations escalated, with protesters storming the parliament building, resulting in significant damage and multiple casualties.
The protests were primarily led by young Kenyans, who felt betrayed by unfulfilled promises of economic relief and job opportunities. Despite the government’s initial defiance, President Ruto was eventually forced to reconsider the bill in response to the extraordinary public outcry.
Gen Z: A Global Force for Change?
The effectiveness of Kenya’s Gen Z protesters has set a precedent that could inspire similar movements worldwide. With social media as a powerful tool for organisation and communication, young people in other countries are increasingly equipped to challenge their governments on issues that matter to them.
In countries like Ghana, where socio-economic issues such as high living costs, power outages, and depreciating currency are prevalent, the potential for a Gen Z-led protest is significant. But it’s not just Ghana that could be inspired by Kenya’s example. Countries across the continent, including Togo, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, face similar issues and could see their youth mobilise similarly.
Key Takeaways from Kenya
1. Heed Public Sentiment: The Kenyan protests underscored the necessity for governments to listen to their people. In Ghana, Togo, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Congo, leaders must genuinely consider the grievances of young citizens who feel increasingly sidelined.
2. Ensure Transparency: In Kenya, one major issue was the opaque manner in which the tax bill was handled. Governments in these countries should strive for transparency in their decisions, ensuring the public understands the rationale behind policies.
3. Alleviate Economic Strain: Economic hardships were a core driver of the Kenyan protests. Nations across Africa, where similar economic pressures are felt, must prioritise economic policies that provide real relief to citizens, especially the younger demographic.
4. Engage Youth Directly: Direct engagement with the youth is vital. Governments in Ghana, Togo, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Congo should create platforms for young people to voice their concerns and contribute to policy-making processes.
5. Maintain Order Respectfully: The harsh response from Kenyan authorities only exacerbated tensions. Other governments should enforce laws respectfully, upholding citizens’ rights to peaceful protest while maintaining public order.
The Kenyan protests have demonstrated the formidable power of Gen Z in driving political and social change. As young people around the world face similar frustrations and challenges, the potential for Kenyan-style protests is very real. By learning from Kenya’s experience, governments across Africa can better address the needs of their youth and avoid the pitfalls of ignoring their voices. If Gen Zs in Ghana, Togo, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Congo, and other nations can channel their dissatisfaction into organised, peaceful, and impactful protests, they too could effect significant change in their respective countries.